The Big Wastewater Story

As part of Project Thrive, the importance of water to our community was one of the loudest messages. This, combined with a vision for growth and prosperity, environmental responsibilities, as well as strong and durable infrastructure is how #thebigwastewaterstory began.  

Wastewater is the water you use and pass back, usually in a less clean form. It comes from showers, toilets, laundries and kitchens at home, and commercial buildings and industries. Importantly it is our water. 

In 2020, we began a conversation with you about the way we treat and discharge our wastewater. This is a big conversation, in which together we’ll be making some huge environmental and financial decisions that will have a significant impact on our future.

It’s no secret that Central Hawke’s Bay’s wastewater network presents a challenge ahead. Each of our treatment plants is in need of upgrades to either meet new environmental requirements, or to improve compliance with current regulatory rules. Ultimately, we must make changes to achieve consent, however alongside this is our opportunity to future proof for any change that might be ahead, including tighter regulation, climate change and population growth. Alongside all of this, we want to meet the aspirational goals we have heard from the community so far, as to how you’d like to see our wastewater being managed in generations to come.

On 8 October 2020, Council's Finance and Infrastructure Committee endorsed the programme's strategy.